James (Jim) Christopher Zrelak

STOW - James Christopher Zrelak was born on January 17, 1969. He was 56 years old when he passed on January 23, 2025.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Kathy (Juhas) Zrelak. Jim is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 21 years, Alice; his daughter, Brianna (Ryan) Wolcott; sons, Lakota Zrelak and Cody Zrelak; grandchildren, Emily, Oliver, and Ady Wolcott; brothers, Tom (Sonia) Zrelak and Mike (Mandy) Zrelak; sister-in-law, Melissa Thaxton; in-laws, Keith and Joan Marshall; nephews, Bailey Thaxton, Nick Zrelak, and Ryan Zrelak, and his three best friends that never stopped showing their love and support no matter how near or far - special thanks to Cheryl, Stu, and Rich.

Jim will forever be loved and missed by many.

Jim was the biggest family man we’ve ever encountered. When he wasn’t busy fixing everyone’s houses and mowing their lawns, he was playing with his grandkids, practicing sports with Lakota or laughing with Bri and her friends. He never skipped a Valentine’s Day, Sweetest Day, anniversary, or random act of kindness to show Alice how much he really adored her. He never failed to put a smile on the faces of those around him . . . not to mention the book that could be written about the times he shared with his best friend, Rich. Jim was the life of the party, and the type of guy you want to keep around.

When Jim was away supporting his family, he was doing a job he truly loved. Jim was a 1987 graduate of Cuyahoga Falls High School and has been an athletic trainer since 1998. He taught physical education in the district for 25 years. The first half was at Preston Elementary School, and he finished the last 13 years at the high school. Jim, otherwise known as “Z”, was the heart of the Cuyahoga Falls City School District. He will forever be remembered by all.

To continue his legacy, the high school will now have a Jim Zrelak Scholarship Fund. In lieu of flowers, donations to Cuyahoga Falls High School for the fund can be sent to, CFHS, Attention: Athletic Department, 2300 4th Street, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221.

Friends are invited to Redmon Funeral Home, 3633 Darrow Road, Stow 44224 for visitation on Sunday, January 26, 2025, from 5 to 8:30 PM.

Pastor Cary Wadle will conduct services on Monday, January 27, 2025, at 11 AM, at The Lighthouse, 315 Graham Road, Cuyahoga Falls 44223, where friends may call from 10 AM until time of service.